Thailand's capital city, straddling the great Chao Phraua River, 20 km ( 12 miles) upstream from the Gulf of Thailand , is an exuberant, enhilarating, infuriating metropolis of seven million people.
Founded by Rama I in 1782, this relatively young city is know to Thais as Krung Thep ( city of angels) a shortened form of a full name in excess of 150 letters.
Bangkok may be a lesson in the dangers of uncontrolled urban expansion, but it is also one of the world's most exciting cities. Its lively nightlife and markets, shops and restaurants, and magnificent wats, museums, palaces, and parks, have something for everyone.
Wat Phra Kaeo
is Bangkok's premier tourist attraction. The sacres Emerald Buddha, or
Phra Kaer, is housed in one of many splendid buildings.
Wat Pho
is one of the oldest temples in the capital, dating originally from
the 16th century. it ia also a famous center for traditional medicine
and contains the much respected institute of massage
Jin Thompson's House
is a beautifully decorated series of teak buildings, was once home to
the famed American silk merchant
Chinatown
is one of Bangkok's most hectic, colorful, and intoxicating districts.
Narrow streets overflow with markets and shops, such as this
religious goods emporium.
